It has been announced that Manx-flagged vessels will, in line with their UK counterparts, begin carrying armed guards to protect against piracy. The Isle of Man has a substantial shipping register with vessels plying their trade globally. Manx registered vessels have faced the same problems as those faced by other nations, particularly in the area Horn of Africa/Indian Ocean (audio clip from the Department of Economic Development (DED) on Manx Radio): (voir le site) Details of the extent of the Manx shipping register can be found on the DED (link): (voir le site) Of course there is nothing new about armed Manx vessels taking to the seas as anyone familiar with the Manx Song `The Cruise of the Tiger' will know. On that occasion, the merchants of the Island armed a merchant vessel to support England in its war with the French. Let us hope that these new military `adventures' by Manx vessels will meet with greater success than that which befell `The Tiger' (see link): (voir le site) (The report compiled for Celtic News by Bernard Moffatt Celtic League Director
of Information) For comment or clarification on this news item in the first instance contact: Rhisiart Tal-e-bot, General Secretary, Celtic League: Tel: 0044 (0)1209 319912
M: 0044 (0)7787318666 gensec [at] celticleague.net The General Secretary will determine the appropriate branch or General Council Officer to respond to your query. ISSUED BY THE CELTIC LEAGUE INFORMATION SERVICE. 14/11/11